Importance and challenges of panchayati raj for older women from the scheduled caste (a sociological study of kannauj district, uttar pradesh)

Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) represent the foundation of grassroots democracy in India and play a crucial role in strengthening rural governance and social inclusion. The introduction of constitutional provisions through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions and mandated reservations for women and Scheduled Castes (SCs), thereby ensuring representation of marginalized groups in local governance. 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act established a three-tier structure of local selfgovernment and reserved seats for women and marginalized communities in rural political institutions. This research article examines the importance and challenges of Panchayati Raj for older women belonging to Scheduled Castes in rural areas of Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh. Older women from Scheduled Caste communities occupy a complex social position shaped by gender, caste hierarchy, age, economic deprivation, and social exclusion. Although constitutional reservations have increased their numerical representation in local governance institutions, their effective participation and decision-making power often remain limited due to patriarchal norms, lack of education, economic dependency, and bureaucratic obstacles. The present study adopts both primary and secondary research methods. Primary data were collected through structured interviews, questionnaires, and field observations conducted in selected villages of Kannauj district. The study included 120 respondents, consisting of elected representatives, former women Panchayat members, and elderly women belonging to Scheduled Caste communities. Secondary data were obtained from books, academic journals, government reports, and census statistics. The findings indicate that Panchayati Raj institutions have created significant opportunities for older Scheduled Caste women to participate in local governance, enhance political awareness, and influence rural development programs. Participation in Panchayats has improved their confidence, social recognition, and involvement in welfare schemes such as housing, sanitation, and social security programs. However, several challenges persist. These include proxy representation by male family members, caste discrimination, lack of administrative knowledge, financial constraints, and social pressure from dominant caste groups. The study concludes that while Panchayati Raj institutions have made meaningful progress toward empowering marginalized women, structural barriers continue to limit their effective leadership. The research suggests strengthening training programs, improving literacy and political awareness, and ensuring institutional support mechanisms to enhance the active participation of elderly Scheduled Caste women in grassroots democracy.